Remnants of Isaac Coming, Residents Told, “Don’t Take Risks”

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ST. LOUIS, Mo. (KMOX) – The St. Louis County Police Department is issuing an extreme weather advisory.

With several inches of rain expected for Friday and Saturday from the remnants of Tropical Storm Isaac, officials are offering residents tips on how to safely deal with the pending weather. The weather may include heavy rains, high winds, downed power lines and flash flooding.

St. Louis County Police Chief Tim Fitch says residents should not take risks, be aware of your surroundings and call 9-1-1 if you notice any dangerous situation.

The Chief says, “Driving through standing water on a flooded street can be hazardous. Water can rise quickly and roads covered by water are prone to collapsing.” He explains that the average automobile can be swept off the road in 12 inches of moving water.”

Fitch says citizens should not hesitate to call 911 if they see any of these threatening events. “The St. Louis County Police Department and other County Departments will be monitoring the effects of any extreme weather we may receive; however, the involvement of our citizens is crucial during these times.

In St. Louis, Mayor Francis Slay says he has asked all City departments to start preparing and to make the necessary staffing changes to be ready for high winds and heavy rain.

“We want to be prepared to keep people safe, clean up debris quickly and reduce the likelihood of damage from flash flooding.”

But with so many popular events and festivals this weekend including the Gateway Cup bicycle races, the Japanese Festival at the Missouri Botanical Gardens, the Big Muddy Blues Festival on Laclede’s Landing and the St. Nicholas Greek Festival in the Central West End, Mayor Slay says residents should avoid taking shelter in temporary structures like tents and seek proper protection in case of lightening or high winds.